ALLEN’S BEND

When those temperatures rise in June, many Sedona hikers will stick to shorter trails until the cooler weather returns. And that’s why we love a quick hike like Allen’s Bend. The trailhead for Allen’s Bend starts at the southeast side of the parking lot for Grasshopper Point, one of Sedona’s most-visited swimming holes. Swimmers can cool off in clear blue waters while they’re surrounded by red rocks. It’s a beautiful place to spend time cooling off during those hot summer months. Take a dip before or after your hike. Grasshopper Point tends to be popular, and hiking Allen’s Bend can give you a nice break from the crowds and some exercise besides swimming.

Grasshopper Point Swimming & Pinic Area is one of Sedona’s most popular swimming holes and is located near the Allen’s Bend trailhead.

When you’re ready to hike, find the trailhead sign at the kiosk near the covered picnic table. This trail is essentially level throughout. Best of all, the trail is mostly shaded meaning you can hike it even when the heat is oppressive. During the spring, see wildflowers. In the fall, the trees are alive with color. Year-round, you may spot wildlife. This relatively flat trail is also a great one for young children or novice hikers since it’s so easy.

A rock wall will be on your left during the entire hike. On your right is Oak Creek, which you can hear flowing but can rarely see. As you hike, look forward to short paths that can give you access to areas where you can fish, swim or picnic. Watch out for poison ivy along this trail. At about the halfway point, the trail moves away from the cliffs and opens up into the site of a former orchard. On your left, see if you can find a small Indian ruin in a shallow cave.

If you hike Allen’s Bend, Oak Creek will be on your right, red rocks will be on your left.

At about 0.4 miles, you’ll find a fork. Take a left to follow Allen’s Bend. Take a right to go down to Oak Creek. The trail ends at the Casner Canyon Trailhead. Turn around for an out-and-back hike that clocks in at 1 mile. Head into Casner Canyon for a longer jaunt. If you want an even longer hike, the trailhead for the 1.2-mile out and back Midgley Bride Trail is at the other end of the parking lot. The Huckaby Trail also intersects with the Midgley Bride Trail. Don’t miss seeing Nancy Rock if you take this path.